THERE were mixed fortunes for local clubs involved in the Energia Men’s All-Ireland League play-offs at the weekend.
Garryowen’s hopes of a quick return to the topflight (1A) ended at the Belfield Bowl after their 35-24 defeat by UCD.
The visitors, who led 19-14 at half-time, were outplayed in the second half, as three converted tries proved the difference.
Tom Ironside-Wickham, Pelle van der Bolder, Jonathan Byrne and Seán Morrissey were the Garryowen try scorers, and Lachlan Stewart kicked two conversions.
In the 2A semi-final, Shannon impressed with a 34-22 home defeat of Dungannon, and will meet UCC in the final.
Richly talented OisÃn Minogue grabbed a hat-trick of tries for Shannon, for whom Jamie Gavin also claimed a five-pointer, along with a massive haul of 14 points from the boot.
In the 2A semi-final, UL Bohemian advanced after their 27-15 home win against Clogher Valley and will entertain Sligo in next week’s decider.
Liam Nellan, Killian Dineen, Jordan Mills and Darren Farrer were the try scorers for the Robins. Cian Casey kicked two conversions and a penalty.
Old Crescent were relegated to Division 2 South next season after their 16-10 home defeat by Sligo.
Thomond’s interest ended with a 21-13 loss at Bective Rangers, but the side preserved their 2C status.